About this episode
What if blending real food could transform your child's tube feeding experience—and your entire family's daily routine? In this inspiring episode, registered dietitian and new mom Hilarie shares how her career in pediatric nutrition led her to create Blended Tube Feeding, a platform and supportive community designed to help families explore real food options for children with feeding tubes. Hilarie and Katie have an insightful conversation about doing what works best for your family and how it is not an all-or-nothing approach when it comes to tube feeding. From clinical frustrations to practical breakthroughs, Hilarie's story is packed with insight, empathy, and encouragement for families navigating complex feeding needs. In this episode, you'll learn: ? What blenderized tube feeding is—and how it helps with digestion, connection, and flexibility ? How Hilarie's work in a neurodevelopment clinic inspired her mission ? Common fears and how to overcome them when shifting from formula to real food ? How to start slowly and safely with blended meals (even using store-bought purees!) ? Where to find affordable support, recipes, and a welcoming online community Whether you're new to tube feeding or ready to explore new options, this episode offers knowledge, support, and a hopeful outlook for the journey ahead. Timestamps & Key Topics ?? [00:00] – Meet Hilarie: Registered Dietitian, New Mom, Real Food Advocate How her love of cooking, gardening, and clinical work intersected in her passion project Why food is central to her family and her mission ?? [04:00] – The "Aha" Moment Behind Blended Tube Feeding Real families, real frustrations, and real improvements How small changes led to big results in digestion and quality of life ?? [06:00] – Formula Isn't the Enemy: Finding What Works Why Hilarie supports a nonjudgmental approach Blended food can be part-time, full-time, or not at all—it's about what's right for your child ?? [08:00] – What Getting Started Looks Like Step-by-step tips: from single-ingredient purees to homemade blends Why slow is better—and how to build confidence without overhauling everything ?? [11:00] – Real Fears, Real Parents Why many parents worry about "rocking the boat" What success looks like when routines become manageable and joyful ?? [13:00] – Why Aren't Dietitians Taught This? The history behind formula becoming standard How schools and hospitals are starting to reintroduce food-base
